Austin, Texas, USA-4-day-itinerary

Austin, Texas 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Austin

Morning

  • Start your day with breakfast at Cafe No Sé, a trendy spot serving up delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol, a stunning example of late 19th-century architecture. Take a guided tour to learn more about Texas history.

Afternoon

  • Head over to 6th Street, a lively entertainment district filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Pop into The Alamo Drafthouse for a unique movie-going experience.
  • Grab lunch at Franklin Barbecue, often named one of the best BBQ joints in the country.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Uchi, an award-winning sushi restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
  • End your night with live music at Stubb’s BBQ, a legendary outdoor venue hosting acts from around the world.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Begin the day with a hike at Barton Creek Greenbelt, a beautiful nature preserve with trails for all skill levels.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

  • Visit Zilker Park, home to the famous Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole. Relax and soak up some sun.

Evening

  • Dine at Home Slice Pizza, serving up massive slices of New York-style pizza with a Texas twist.
  • Catch a show or comedy act at Moontower Comedy Festival (seasonal) or The Velveeta Room.

Day 3: Foodie Heaven

Morning

  • Brunch at Magnolia Cafe, an Austin institution serving up creative dishes and a fun atmosphere.
  • Visit the Hope Farmers Market (Sundays only) for a taste of local flavors and artisanal goods.

Afternoon

  • Take a food truck tour, sampling some of the city’s best eats on wheels. Be sure to hit up Veracruz All Natural, serving authentic Mexican cuisine.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Condesa, offering innovative Mexican dishes in a chic setting.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the HOPE Outdoor Gallery.

Day 4: South Congress and Beyond

Morning

  • Stroll down South Congress Avenue, lined with eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries. Be sure to snap a photo in front of the iconic “I love you so much” mural.
  • Visit the Continental Club, a legendary music venue hosting acts from around the world.

Afternoon

  • Head to Mount Bonnell, offering breathtaking views of Lake Austin and the surrounding hills.
  • Visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, featuring beautiful works by Charles Umlauf amidst lush gardens.

Evening

  • Dine at Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, serving up fresh seafood in a charming setting.
  • End your night with cocktails at The Midnight Cowboy, a swanky speakeasy-style bar.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel San José: A stylish, boutique hotel on South Congress Avenue with a fun pool scene.
  • Airbnb options: Choose from a variety of apartments and houses in trendy neighborhoods like SoCo and East Austin.

Transportation

  • Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city.
  • Public transportation: Use Capital Metro buses or the Red Line light rail to get around.
  • Walk/bike: Austin is pedestrian-friendly, with many bike lanes and walking trails.

Tips and Essentials

  • Weather: Pack for warm weather, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 90s (°F).
  • Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Festivals and events: Check the city’s event calendar to catch festivals like SXSW, Austin City Limits, or the Texas Book Festival.
  • Tipping culture: Show appreciation for good service with 15-20% tips at restaurants and bars.

Additional Resources

  • Visit Austin: The official tourism website, offering insider tips and guides.
  • Austin Food + Wine Festival: A culinary event featuring local chefs, wine, and live music (seasonal).
  • Austin Chronicle: A weekly newspaper covering news, entertainment, and culture in the city.